Everything you need to know
FAQs
More Connection, More Adventure, More Thriving for You.
We understand you may have lots of questions, so we’ve provided a comprehensive range of answers. If you’re still unsure about something, please contact us.
Do you offer payment plans for bigger trips?
Yes we certainly do. After you’ve paid the deposit you can have the remaining amount automatically split into regular payments. See the event ticket page or contact us for more information.
Do you offer single supplements?
Yes, we have limited spots for people to have their own room depending on the particular trip and the accommodation we’re using. Please contact us at Hello@takeshapeadventures.com.au to find out more.
Who comes on these trips? Can I come alone?
Our participants are generally people in their 30s–60s with similar interests to you. They range in fitness from doing nothing — this being their first foray into the outdoors — through to regular exercisers who want more social activities or a challenge on our harder walks. If you’re unsure, book into one of our easier walks, bring your enthusiasm, and meet us. Our goal is to make sure you have a good day out.
What is included?
All our national trips include our awesome TSA guides, accommodation, all your meals (*exceptions noted on the tour), access, permits, and all extras such as gear, activities, and first aid. There’s never any more to pay, unless you want to buy your own things like a coffee or souvenirs.
How fit do I need to be?
Our trips vary in length and difficulty. Look at the grading provided and browse the itinerary distances. If you can walk 20km day after day then you’ll be fine for the Larapinta Trek, or you may be more suited to wandering around the Bay of Fires and more leisurely beach walking. Remember you’ll have weeks to months to build up your fitness before the trip — which we can help with. If still in doubt, give us a call.
Do I need any experience to participate?
No, you don’t need any experience. TSA’s activities are suitable for everyone and we also offer training sessions for activities.
Do you cater for people with disabilities?
Absolutely. Take Shape Adventures is an inclusive tourism business. Although many of our events involve challenging terrain and may not be suitable, we do run some events in locations that are better suited. Please email operations@takeshapeadventures.com.au or call 0400 307 130 to discuss how we can create an enjoyable experience for you.
What if I have specific dietary requirements?
We adapt our menus across day hikes, overnight hikes, and tours. Day hikes feature fresh salads, wraps, tuna, cheese, fruit and snacks; overnight hikes use high-energy non-perishable food with slow-cooked dinners; tours include cooked breakfasts and hearty dinners with dessert.
We accommodate Gluten-Free, Coeliac, Vegetarian, Vegan and Low-FODMAP diets with alternative ingredients and safe prep. You’re also welcome to bring your own snacks or supplement your food (with some limits on overnight hikes where there’s no refrigeration).
What if I don’t know anyone?
You will when you leave! All our activities are highly social and have a wonderful vibe. Come along and make some new friends while experiencing the outdoors.
Is Take Shape Adventures insured?
Take Shape Adventures is fully insured through Australia and New Zealand. We’re a licensed tour operator in Victoria, South Australia, Tasmania, Northern Territory and NSW. All our guides are Wilderness First Aid qualified.
These questions are all about coming for a Short or Day Hike with us.
How hard are the day walks?
All our walks are graded from 2–5, with 2 being easy and 5 being hard. See our grading page to help you choose the walk that’s right for you. No matter what you do, there’s always a TSA guide to support and assist.
What does the cost include?
A fully guided experience with trained, Wilderness First Aid qualified staff. We’re a licensed tour operator in Victoria, Tasmania, NSW and South Australia. We also provide a healthy lunch and snacks so you don’t have to carry anything, and can assist with car pooling.
What footwear should I wear?
One of our most common questions. For most day walks, wear your most comfortable footwear — not old hiking boots from 20 years ago, and not thongs or sandals. Your runners are probably the best choice unless you have comfortable hiking shoes or trail runners. For muddy winter walks you may want better grip. If in doubt, bring both pairs and get our guide’s recommendation on the day.
Will there be toilets?
Yes, the majority of our walks have toilets at the start. We send out information when you book with details of toilet facilities. Some walks start from odd locations and we’ll let you know if there are no facilities.
How long are the walks?
Our walks vary from 9km through to approximately 23km. The distance is usually comparable to the grade — easier grades are shorter. Walks usually start at 9am and finish between 2–4pm.
How much water should I carry?
At least 2 litres of fluids in a water bladder or bottles for a day walk. During summer this requirement is 3 litres, as it can be hot and thirsty work out there.
Can I bring my child?
Yes, generally kids over 12 are allowed under adult supervision. Some staff have a Working With Children Check, however children remain the responsibility of the parent/guardian at all times. Kids are generally free on day walks — contact us for advice on bringing them along.
What happens if I’m really slow?
Then you’ll have more time to chat to one of our enthusiastic, supportive guides — we don’t leave anyone at the back. If this is your biggest concern, fear no more: everyone who’s been on our events has finished with pride and happiness that they came out and gave it a go.
Do I need walking poles?
You’re welcome to bring poles if you use them. We also have sets you can borrow if you’d like to try hiking poles before you go and buy some.
Here you’ll find information specifically on our overnight hikes — what to bring and wear.
What happens when you hike with us?
We’ve put together a great brochure that explains exactly what happens when you come on an overnight hike with us — from gear to meals to the daily rhythm.
What gear do I need to bring?
Apart from your own sleeping bag, we can assist with everything else. We can arrange equipment or help you purchase suitable gear for any outdoor activity, so don’t let equipment stand in the way of your adventure. We also provide a complete pack list, plus a side list of what not to bring.
What is provided?
We provide all dinners, lunches, breakfasts, morning and afternoon tea and all snacks for the event. We also supply all the cooking equipment and prepare your meals for you — what service.
What should I not bring?
Remember you have to carry what you bring. So no spare food, extra clothes, spare shoes, radios, speakers, makeup cases, unnecessary toiletries, mirrors, phone chargers, big books, kindles or iPads. Everyone carries a bit of food, so leave some space in your rucksack.
How much do I have to carry?
You’ll carry a large rucksack around 40–60 litre capacity, holding your tent, sleeping mat, sleeping bag, clothes, personal items, water and a portion of the weekend’s food. It normally weighs 11–14kg on the first day and 1–2kg lighter on day two. We use hand scales to weigh everyone’s bag before leaving to make sure you don’t have too much.
How hard will it be?
We won’t sugarcoat it — overnight hiking can be hard work. But the reward is ALWAYS worth it and every one of our clients has revelled in their accomplishment. The biggest factor isn’t the walking, terrain or distance — it’s carrying the rucksack. Our suggestion: grab a bag, fill it with stuff, and start going for walks.
Will there be toilets and showers?
Sometimes. Depending on the walk, some have toilet facilities and some require you to go bush. There are no shower facilities on overnight hikes — but there are rivers, streams, and beaches.
Do I need a rain jacket?
Yes, we strongly recommend bringing a rain jacket if inclement weather is expected during the event.
Do you offer refunds if I can’t attend?
If you make a mistake when purchasing an event ticket, we’re happy to help rectify it. In all other circumstances our refund policy can be found in our full Terms and Conditions.
Going on a big trip with us? Awesome! Have a read through these to find out more.
Are flights included?
No. Due to the nature of travel — your location, rewards, preferences etc — we don’t include flights.
Will I have to share my accommodation?
Yes, you’ll need to share. But aren’t you coming along to meet new people, expand your social circles, and push your boundaries a little? All our participants are just like you and may feel the same. We’ll always do our best to provide what you need depending on location, venue and number of participants.
What sort of accommodation do you have?
Since we run a range of trips across Australia and overseas, accommodation varies considerably — from a bunk room in the desert through to a five-star resort for a night. We always try to provide the best and most suitable accommodation depending on location and availability.
What should I bring on an extended trip or tour?
It depends on the destination — Tasmania calls for different clothing than walking the Larapinta Trail near Alice Springs. Bear in mind we’re often transporting all your gear from one location to the next, so we suggest you don’t bring massive suitcases.
Find out more about our membership program and all the details here.
How do I log into my account?
On the TSA homepage, at the top of the menu scroll across to ‘Sign In’. That’s where you log into your membership account.
My personal details have changed, how do I fix them?
You can do this through the ‘My Account’ page on our website when you’re logged in to your profile.
I’d like to change my membership level, how do I do this?
Please contact the office to change your membership level: hello@takeshapeadventures.com.au.
Can I book for others with my membership?
You can’t share your membership or any of its exclusive benefits with anyone else.
Is there a minimum term?
There’s a three-month minimum subscription for a monthly membership.
How do I book an event for the member price?
Once you’re logged in on our website, our system recognises you as one of our valued members and automatically applies the member price when you add the event to your shopping cart.
How long is my membership valid for?
If you’re paying our monthly membership fee, you can cancel or change your level at any time. If you paid upfront for an annual membership, this expires after 12 months.
How do I cancel my membership?
We require notice in writing of your cancellation prior to your next recurring billing date. We’re unable to provide a refund for payments debited prior to receiving the cancellation request.
Can I pause my membership?
Yes, you can pause your monthly membership. Your access and free events will be available again once your membership is renewed.
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Still curious? Check out the blog for many more articles to explore.